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Cardiovascular biomarkers and their utility in the older adult
Susan P Bell1, Jennifer L Giuseffi1, Daniel E Forman2
1Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, 383 PRB, 2220 Pierce Avenue, Nashville, TN 37232-6300.
Insights
Biomarkers show promise for diagnosing and managing cardiovascular disease in older adults, though evidence is still emerging. This review explores their role in risk assessment for this unique population.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Cardiology
- Biomarker Research
Background:
- Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major health concern in adults over 65.
- Diagnosis and management of CVD in older adults are complex due to population heterogeneity.
- Current biomarker evidence in this demographic is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the epidemiological associations of current biomarkers in older adults.
- To assess the utility of biomarkers for CVD diagnosis in the elderly.
- To evaluate biomarkers for risk stratification and management of CVD in this population.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of epidemiological studies.
- Analysis of biomarker associations with CVD in individuals over 65.
- Examination of biomarker utility in diagnosis, risk discrimination, and management.
Main Results:
- Current literature on biomarkers for CVD in older adults is sparse.
- Review synthesizes available epidemiological data on biomarker associations.
- Explores the potential role of biomarkers in clinical decision-making for elderly patients.
Conclusions:
- Biomarkers may offer valuable insights into CVD in older adults.
- Further research is needed to establish definitive roles for biomarkers in this population.
- Biomarkers could enhance diagnosis, risk stratification, and management strategies for geriatric CVD.
Abstract:
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in individuals over the age of 65 yet diagnosis, risk stratification and management continue to be more challenging than in younger adults due to the vast heterogeneity seen in this population. The current literature validates the use of biomarkers in addition to traditional risk assessment tools in younger and middle aged adults. The evidence for biomarkers in this older population is sparse; this review examines the epidemiological association of current biomarkers in the field and the utility of these markers in the diagnosis, risk discrimination and management of cardiovascular disease.
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